Fire Department

Mayor Mark Desire expressed great appreciation for this grant and the volunteers that do so much fro High Bridge. “High Bridge firefighters work tirelessly and risk their lives to keep our families safe. This funding will help ensure that the High Bridge Fire Department has what they need. The residents of High Bridge would like to thank Congressman Lance whose support was instrumental in obtaining this federal funding during a time of municipal budgetary constraints. We all have deep appreciation for the work our firefighters perform and this new equipment will improve their ability to do so,” said Mayor Desire.

Councilman Steve Strange, Liaison to Emergency Services, added his thanks by stating, “Our Fire Department and other emergency services work very hard, generally behind the scenes, to keep us all safe. This grant that HBFD has received is a perfect example of how they do this while trying to help taxpayers in any way they can.”

Fire Chief Jeff Smith and members of the Fire Department hosted this presentation. Chief Smith offered his thanks as well saying, “the High Bridge Fire Department has been submitting for these grants on our own since 2003 and recently this hard work has paid off. In 2014 we received a grant to replace our outdated Breathing Air Compressor and now we were awarded $105,953 to replace the remainder of our aging Self Contained Breathing Apparatus. I would like to note that the Borough of High Bridge replaced a third of the “air packs” last year and were slated to upgrade the remainder this year and next, which will no longer be necessary thanks to this grant. I would like to thank the Borough of High Bridge that has always put the safety of our firefighters first and we, the High Bridge Fire Department thank you for that.”

For emergencies, dial 9-1-1

Fire Prevention

The High Bridge Fire Department again plans to review fire prevention at our schools in October. We urge parents to talk to their kids about EDITH (exit drills in the home). Once out of the house, never reenter until the Fire Department has determined it is safe to enter. Check that your heating system is properly maintained. Chimneys should be cleaned and checked for leaks. A metal can should be used for fireplace ashes and dumped far from any structure or flammable material. Remember – use a fire extinguisher on small fires only. If there is a large fire, get out and call the Fire Department by dialing 9-1-1.

Fire Safety

Keep leaves and yard debris away from any structure. Outdoor chimneas must have wire mesh or screen to catch embers. Chimneas that don’t have these are considered illegal burns. Persons using approved chimneas should only use hard woods or Class A fuel. Note that pressure-treated lumber can produce harmful vapors and cedar produces a lot of creosote.

Annual Picnic

The 2014 Annual Picnic will be held on July 26. This event is open to the public and is a great opportunity to spend time with your neighbors and make new friends. NO one under 21 is permitted. For more information, go to the Annual Picnic website page. Please purchase tickets early next year to avoid disappointment.

Annual Golf Outing

Our Annual Golf Outing will be held on June 16. If you are interested in registering a foursome or sponsoring a hole, please call the Fire Department via email.

Used Clothing Bin

We have a used clothing bin in the rear of our parking lot for your convenience. When cleaning your closets, you can donate your used clothes, sneakers, shoes, belts, purses, blankets, sheets, and pillow cases. All donations are tax deductible and greatly appreciated.

New Members Needed

Help us to help you! Anyone interested in joining the High Bridge Fire Department is welcome to stop by any Monday night to talk about how you can help High Bridge or visit our website.

History of the High Bridge Fire Department

On July 9, 1898 a large fire occurred in High Bridge which destroyed part of Main Street. Since there was no fire department in town, a fire department from Phillipsburg came down by train. The following year a special meeting of the Borough Council was called by Mayor Moore and a resolution was adopted creating a volunteer Fire Department.

Housed in the L.H. Taylor Hose Company firehouse on Maryland Avenue, the HBFD has over 40 members including firefighters, EMTs and junior members. Their apparatus includes pumpers, ladder trucks and specialized foam and brush units. They are first responders for the Borough and provide mutual aid to the surrounding communities.

The HBFD is active in the community, sponsoring an Annual Picnic at Union Forge Park and conducts Fire Safety Education programs in the High Bridge schools.

For information on volunteering, banquet hall rental, or any other questions contact: